The 2026 Proton X90 Buyer’s Warning: 5 Critical Safety Features You Are No Longer Getting

In the world of automotive facelifts, "new" usually means "better." But as we move into March 2026, Proton has turned that logic on its head. While the newly launched 2026 Proton X90 MC (Minor Change) arrives with a significantly lower entry price of RM99,800 (or RM106,800 without rebate), it comes at a staggering cost that isn't measured in Ringgit, it's measured in safety stars.

Proton X90 launched in 2023

In a rare and dramatic move, ASEAN NCAP has officially revoked the X90’s 5-Star rating, downgrading the 2026 model to a 1-Star rating.

Why? Because to achieve that sub-RM100k price point, Proton didn't just trim the fat; they stripped the "brain" out of the car. If you are shopping for a family SUV today, here are the 5 critical safety features you are no longer getting in the 2026 X90.

1. Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)

The most significant loss is the car’s ability to stop itself. In the 2023–2025 models, AEB acted as your silent co-pilot, slamming the brakes if it detected an imminent collision with a car or pedestrian. In the 2026 model, that safety net is gone. If you're distracted for even a second, the car will no longer intervene to prevent a crash.

2. Blind Spot Technology (BST)

This is the feature that cost the X90 its 5-star status. ASEAN NCAP’s Motorcyclist Safety category relies heavily on Blind Spot Detection. By removing this, Proton has effectively made the X90 a "blind" giant on Malaysian roads, where motorbikes are everywhere. Without BST, the car's rating was capped at 1-star, regardless of how well it performed in a crash.

3. Lane Keep Assist (LKA) & Departure Warning (LDW)

The official statement from ASEAN NCAP regarding the change in the Proton X90’s safety rating.

The Level 2 ADAS suite that made the original X90 a highway cruiser has been completely deleted. The 2026 X90 no longer gently steer you back into your lane or beep if you drift. On long Balik Kampung trips where driver fatigue is a real factor, this omission is a massive step backward for family safety.

4. Forward Collision Warning (FCW)

Coupled with the loss of AEB, the 2026 model also loses its "eyes." There is no longer a system to warn you that the car ahead has stopped suddenly. You are now 100% reliant on your own reaction time, without the millisecond-advantage that the original 2023 model provided.

5. Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)

Backing out of a busy parking lot at IOI City Mall? In the old X90, the car would beep if a vehicle was approaching from your blind side. In the 2026 model, you’re back to old-school "peek and pray."

2023 vs. 2026: The Safety Gap at a Glance

As MIROS Director General, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Siti Zaharah binti Ishak, sharply noted: "Safety is not a trade-off. Do not sacrifice proven safety technology for 'face-value' luxuries like infotainment systems."

The 2026 X90 does give you wireless Apple CarPlay and a new 4-cylinder engine, but it asks you to gamble with your family's safety assist.

Read: 2026 Proton X90 MC: 5 Reasons It’s Finally Better Than the Toyota Zenix, Or Is It?